The books I've read & the movies I've seen

From IMDb: “In the near future, a weary Logan cares for an ailing Professor X in a hide out on the Mexican border. But Logan’s attempts to hide from the world and his legacy are up-ended when a young mutant arrives, being pursued by dark forces.”

It seems strange to say that this is the best “X-Men” movie that Fox have done so far, and yet there’s hardly anything of the “X-Men” in it. As a movie, “Logan” is gritty, fantastic storytelling and packs a seriously emotional punch for Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart’s last movie in this Universe. Honestly, I’ve not watched any of the previous movies centred around Wolverine because none of them have offered up any interest to me, but I’m glad I went to the cinema to experience this one.

It’s public knowledge by now that this film boasts an R rating in the States, and it’s no lie to say that this is easily the most violent ”X-Men” movie to date. However “Logan” is not violent for the sake of being violent. The movie focuses on the characters, and the violence used reflects the characters personality and drive rather than a case of gore for the sake of gore. While it is a little bit shocking seeing a young girl hacking and slicing along with Wolverine, the violence always takes a back seat to the progression of the movie.

This is easily one of Hugh Jackman’s best performances in any movie. By this point in his life, Logan has given up, is an alcoholic and he’s getting old. Life has caught up with him, and he’s had enough. Hugh Jackman’s portrayal in this movie is perfect, and when Logan hurts we hurt. His performance adds so much depth to the movie, and is a fitting last farewell for Wolverine on screen.

Another emotional punch from the movie comes from Patrick Stewart, who with this movie also bows out from his role as Charles Xavier. Now aged and suffering from seizures and dementia, it’s easy to understand how much of threat the most powerful mutant to ever exist has become. This movie is so character driven, it’s not easy to say goodbye to these much loved and timeless characters.

Lastly, it is worth noting the young Dafne Keen’s performance as Laura, a young mutant with powers just like Logan’s. It is a wonderful contrast between the ageing man who has reached the end of his rope, and the youngster who has so much drive and fire still within. This girl was phenomenal, holding her ground as the female lead in this movie. This girl is going to have an amazing career, and yes, I’m making that judgement solely based on her performance in “Logan”.

While violent and brutally graphic, “Logan” is a tremendous, character driven movie. At over two hours long it’s difficult to keep movies paced well and not lose the audience, but “Logan” manages this wonderfully. It truly is the perfect movie for Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart to end their contracts with the “X-Men” franchise with.